Canton enamel

Chinese painted enamel on copper developed in the late 17th century. It was produced mainly in the city of Canton, Guandong province in southern China, for export. Decoration was usually in the form of figures, flowers, and insects in the famille rose palette (see: famille jaune, noire, rose, verte). Wares include dishes, plates, cups, vases, tea kettles and, in the 20th century, matchboxes and ashtrays.